Richey Cove
4.38110 reviews1268 HWY177, COUNCIL GROVE, KS, 66846-9322, USA
Richey Cove
$23.00 - $130.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$130.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $23 to $130 depending on the site type. Group Standard Electric sites cost $130 per night, while Standard Electric sites vary between $23 and $29.
About this campground
Nestled along the scenic shores of Council Grove Lake, Richey Cove Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 43 thoughtfully designed campsites amid Kansas's rolling grasslands. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with nature here—each site offers electric hookups and easy access to clean flush toilets, while the surrounding landscape invites exploration. Cast a line into the lake's pristine waters, launch your boat for a sunset cruise, or set off on winding trails that reveal the beauty of the prairie ecosystem. Whether you're seeking a weekend getaway or an extended adventure, this lakeside retreat provides the perfect basecamp for discovering the natural wonders of the Flint Hills region.
Richey Cove features a variety of camping options, including standard electric sites and a group campsite suitable for up to 40 guests. Tent and RV camping are supported, with water, electricity, and sewer hookups available.
Historical SignificanceRich with frontier heritage, this campground sits in the shadow of Council Grove's storied past, where wagon wheels once carved deep ruts into the Santa Fe Trail. Just a short drive away, the historic town of Council Grove preserves the legacy of westward expansion and cultural convergence. It was here that Osage leaders gathered to sign the pivotal treaty that opened the trail, forever changing the American frontier. Today's campers can walk in the footsteps of pioneers, traders, and Native Americans who shaped this crossroads of cultures, making every stay a connection to the epic journey that helped build the American West.
Weather and SeasonsKansas weather adds its own dramatic flair to the camping experience at Richey Cove, where prairie winds sweep across the landscape and sudden storms can transform clear skies into theatrical displays of nature's power. Even when gusty conditions and passing showers roll through, campers find the experience invigorating rather than intimidating. Fall brings particularly dynamic weather, with thunderstorms that rumble across the plains—but thanks to the campground's excellent drainage and thoughtful design, these atmospheric events become part of the adventure rather than an inconvenience. Most days reward visitors with crystalline skies that stretch endlessly above the prairie horizon.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground unfolds across a tapestry of natural beauty where the 3,310-acre Council Grove Lake meets the legendary Tallgrass Prairie. Mature trees provide welcome shade and frame stunning waterfront vistas, while native grasses dance in the wind, creating waves of green and gold that stretch to the horizon. This rare ecosystem—one of the last remaining tallgrass prairies in North America—transforms with the seasons, from spring wildflower explosions to autumn's amber palette. Whether you're watching sunrise paint the lake in pastels or enjoying the symphony of prairie birds at dusk, the scenery here offers endless moments of natural wonder.
Geological RegionWelcome to the Flint Hills, where ancient limestone ridges create a rolling landscape unlike anywhere else in Kansas. This remarkable geological region harbors one of the planet's last intact tallgrass prairie ecosystems, a sea of native grasses that once covered millions of acres across the continent. The campground's location in eastern Kansas places visitors at the heart of this natural treasure, where rocky outcroppings peek through verdant hillsides and the terrain tells a story written over millions of years. Here, the marriage of water and prairie creates a unique environment where geological history meets ecological significance in spectacular fashion.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes paved sites and well-maintained facilities, but some reviewers noted uneven or sloped campsite pads, which may pose challenges for accessibility.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally spacious, paved, and equipped with picnic tables and grills. However, some reviewers reported narrow or unlevel pads.
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels depending on site location. Some sites offer secluded lakefront views, while others are closer to communal areas like the beach and playground.
Total Campsites43 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #35 is recommended for its views and proximity to amenities. Sites near the water offer excellent lakefront access.
Best CampsitesSite #35 repeatedly praised for proximity to amenities and views. "Spacious campsite #35. Nice view and short walk to shower house" (Review by Dave Pellegrino).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
3:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights per visit, and up to 14 nights within a rolling 30 days.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 40 guests, and reviews indicate mixed experiences. One reviewer noted water access issues at the group site (S-1).
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are paved with covered picnic tables and grills. Some sites have unlevel pads requiring leveling equipment.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from April 1 to October 30 (Peak Season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityUnclear if walk-up sites are available. Reservation rules indicate reservation-only setup.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival. Cancellations incur a $10 fee along with other applicable fees. Late cancellations (within 1 day for individual sites) result in forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Richey Cove provides a variety of recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, hiking, camping, and swimming. The lake is popular for crappie and catfish fishing, and the campground features a boat ramp for easy access. Scenic hiking trails and the nearby Flint Hills National Scenic Byway add to the area's appeal.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available around the lake and forested areas. The Pioneer Nature Trail is particularly noted for its scenic beauty, featuring wildlife, greenery, and wildflowers.Fishing
The lake is well-known for crappie and catfish fishing, as well as saugeye, a species first stocked here in Kansas. Public fishing lands surround the lake.Swimming
A designated swimming beach is available and popular among families. Some reviews noted occasional cleanliness issues due to geese activity.Boating
Boating is a highlighted activity, with a boat ramp located in the campground for visitor convenience. Types of boats allowed were not specified.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, including sightings of quail, prairie chicken, wild turkey, and deer.Beach activities
Beach-related activities include swimming, sunbathing, and family outings. Some reviews mentioned sand cleanliness issues due to wildlife.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities noted.Water Sports
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are popular water sports at the lake, as reported by reviewers. Equipment rentals were not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Guests must report issues related to campfire misuse.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSome sites are unlevel, requiring leveling equipment. Noted presence of oak mites and dog-related hazards due to irresponsible owners.
Active alertsNo alerts currently.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 1.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Morris County Sheriff Office at (620)767-6310 for emergencies.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 01, 2025 - October 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available throughout the campground, and visitors are encouraged to dispose of waste responsibly. Reviewers noted the facilities were clean and well-maintained.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to Council Grove Lake. Beach area and swimming access available nearby.
Common complaintsIssues included unlevel campsites, lack of potable water in some sites, and loose dogs violating leash rules.
HostNo camp host available; guests must drive 5 miles to check in/pay (noted by user reviews).
Campground Map
1268 HWY177, COUNCIL GROVE, KS, 66846-9322, USA
Driving directionsFrom I-70, take Highway 177 south for 30 miles. Richey Cove entrance is located on the west side of the highway at the dam road.
Access to Richey Cove is straightforward and via well-maintained highways (Highway 177). There appear to be no seasonal closures or unpaved terrain challenges.Nearby places
Council Grove (2 miles southeast, approximately 5 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Council Grove town, located 2 miles southeast, provides groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.4
110 reviews
Richey Cove is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users frequently praise the campsite for its cleanliness, scenic views, and spacious layout. The average sentiment for campground-specific reviews is high, at 4.27. Negative comments often highlight uneven campsite pads, dog leash rule enforcement issues, and occasional water system failures.
Review Summaries
Based on 110 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, spacious sites, scenic lakefront views, helpful rangers, and convenient amenities like showers and flush toilets. 'Absolutely amazing campground on the side of a beautiful lake,'...
Based on 110 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Unlevel campsite pads, non-compliance with dog leash rules, occasional water shortages, and geese-related beach cleanliness issues.
Based on 110 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring leveling blocks for uneven pads. Choose flatter sites if camping with children. 'Be prepared with blocks,' advised one user. Another suggested checking site size and accessibility beforehand.
Based on 110 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Positive reviews peak in spring and fall, with visitors enjoying wildflowers and autumn colors. Summer reviews often mention high activity levels and occasional cleanliness challenges at the swimming...
Based on 110 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'Clean and comfortable. All the amenities. Favorite place to camp.' 'Camping on the beach is great!' 'My kids love the swimming beach,' noted reviewers.
Based on 110 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 35 received positive reviews for proximity to bathrooms, beach, and scenic views. Site 48 faced complaints about size restrictions and difficult parking angles. Site 1 was noted for its narrow...
Based on 110 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews mention uneven or sloped campsite pads as a challenge for accessibility. Users advised bringing leveling equipment.
Based on 110 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed experiences reported regarding pet policies. Many users noted dogs running loose despite leash rules, while others appreciated the pet-friendly environment.
Based on 110 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025